Beginning with a week full of innovation-centered programming and ending with an outdoor weekend concert, you won’t want to miss out on what’s in store for 2016.

The festival will run from September 20-24, and is produced by Pittsburgh-based nonprofit organization, Thrill Mill, Inc., a co-op that works as a catalyst for start-up local entrepreneurs.

Over the years, the week preceding the concert has included pitch competitions, workshops, speakers and symposiums, and this year is set to top it all.

According to Thrival’s website, they’re refining [the] innovation platform … exploring the most cutting-edge ideas, technologies, and stories that are defining modern society.”

After the major decline in industry from the collapse of the steel industry, Thrill Mill, Inc. is striving to harness and help a new wave of energy in the form of entrepreneurs.

All proceeds from Thrival Festival will go towards the Thrill Mill mission in providing free resources to support local entrepreneurs, and introducing our city as “the world leader in post-industrial economic development.”

Since its conception, Thrival has grown consistently. According to Grey Area Productions founder Ben Penigar, there was over a 100% increase in sales last year. He and the staff at Grey Area help to provide marketing strategies and operational logistics for Thrival.

“We consider ourselves very fortunate to be asked to jump onto a train with impressive momentum,” Penigar shared with us recently.

This year’s Innovation Themes include AuthentiCity, which questions the culture and identity of Pittsburgh’s future; Ripple Effect, which explores how insignificant acts expand into the next big thing; and Lost and Found—a re-imagining of the past.

“What attendees can expect in 2016 is a more refined and dynamic innovation program, incorporating questions both pressing and relevant to Pittsburgh, [as well as] opportunities and challenges, all combined into a format with which it is easy to engage,” Penigar said.